Enhanced Internet Speed in the Far East Through Russian Hardware
Megafon has announced the launch of a new trunk line connecting Khabarovsk and Komsomolsk-on-Amur, marking an important addition to the regional trunk network. The project, which required compliance with the strictest performance and reliability standards for equipment, saw the collaboration of Megafon engineers with specialists from T8 for unique calculations and the implementation of DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology.
Benefits of Using T8's DWDM Technology
The use of T8's DWDM technology in large-scale infrastructure projects presents several benefits. For one, it supports localization and supply chain security by reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, offering easier access to technical support, maintenance, and spare parts within Russia. The cost-effectiveness of domestic products, with lower logistics, import duties, and currency fluctuations, also makes large-scale deployments more affordable.
Furthermore, T8's equipment may be designed or optimized for the Russian environment, including temperature extremes and vast distances in Siberia and the Far East. This could lead to better compatibility with existing Russian telecom network standards and integration protocols. Choosing T8 also supports the growth of the Russian technology sector and encourages local innovation in optical networking technologies.
Challenges of Using T8's DWDM Technology
While the benefits are significant, the use of T8's DWDM technology also presents challenges. The technology's maturity, performance, and feature set may not be on par with leading global vendors, potentially limiting channel capacity, signal reach, and advanced features. Integrating T8 DWDM equipment with existing multi-vendor networks could pose interoperability challenges, requiring additional testing and possible custom engineering.
Future-proofing is critical for large infrastructure projects, and the scalability and upgrade paths of T8 multiplexers might be less flexible, limiting long-term network evolution. After-sales support and training might require extensive efforts, and the availability of firmware updates and security patches could be less frequent compared to major international vendors.
Stakeholders may also have concerns regarding vendor reliability, especially for mission-critical infrastructure. The reputation and track record of T8 equipment in very large-scale deployments may not be as well established.
The Khabarovsk–Komsomolsk-on-Amur Link
The new line, spanning over 400 kilometers, uses Russian DWDM multiplexers and boasts a data transmission speed of 100 Gbit/s. Olga Yanchevskaya, T8's Deputy General Director for Commerce, noted the project's technical interest and the need for high precision in calculations. The line's routers distribute signals, amplify them over long distances, and ensure fast and stable data transmission.
Andrei Kristofovich, Director of Transport Network Development at Megafon, stated the launch of the new line enhances the trunk network's flexibility and reliability. The new trunk line is part of Megafon's long-term strategy for network development in the Far East.
The new line's DWDM system can be scaled up to 800 Gbit/s, a testament to its potential for future growth. The complexity of the project lay in the heterogeneous structure of the cable route, but the collaboration between Megafon and T8 has proven successful in overcoming these challenges.
This is the first infrastructure project of this scale for Megafon using domestic equipment, marking a significant step forward in the large-scale application of Russian DWDM solutions.
- The collaboration between Megafon and T8 in the Khabarovsk–Komsomolsk-on-Amur link involved the use of T8's DWDM technology, which is designed or optimized for the Russian environment, providing better compatibility with existing Russian telecom network standards and integration protocols.
- The launch of the new trunk line connecting Khabarovsk and Komsomolsk-on-Amur by Megafon, which utilizes Russian DWDM multiplexers, signifies a move towards localization and supply chain security, as it potentially reduces reliance on foreign suppliers and offers easier access to technical support, maintenance, and spare parts within Russia.
